Igloos, Carhops, and Greenhouses: Fun Chicago Outdoor Restaurants for Winter Family Dining

Try outdoor winter dining in an igloo. Photo courtesy of the Lakefront Restaurant's Facebook page

One idea that became extremely popular during the pandemic is outdoor dining and private dining experiences. From igloos to greenhouses, and heated outdoor patios, we've rounded up some of our favorite outdoor dining experiences. When you're in need of a fun outdoor gathering without freezing in the cold, these restaurants have you covered. 

For more family-friendly restaurants check out our picks for the best family-friendly restaurants in Chicago. Any of these spots pair nicely with one of our kid-friendly winter activities.

Ultimate Winter Bucket List: 35 Best Things to Do with Kids in DC

Snow tubing is the perfect winter activity! Photo courtesy of Whitetail Mountain Ski Resort

Winter in the Washington, DC area can be a parenting challenge in the best of times, but there's no stopping us. We are here to help you keep boredom at bay during the colder months with this ultimate winter bucket list.

With so many things to do in DC and nearby during the colder months—from outdoor activities like ice skating and snow tubing to indoor fun such as trampoline parks and tons of free museums—even the most finicky kids will remain entertained until the warmer weather returns.

Here are 35 things to do near DC to cross off your winter bucket list with kids. For even more fun, check out our Winter Activities Guide for DC Kids. We're also adding more fun events to our events calendar each day.

53 Awesome Things To Do Indoors in Philly On Cold and Rainy Days

The bright and whimsical play space at Kith + Kin. Photo courtesy of Kith & Kin

Caught cabin fever when it's too cold to play outside? We've compiled all the best spots for kids to have fun inside, including all the best indoor play spaces and indoor playgrounds near Philly. Cozy up and channel creativity, get tuckered out at a trampoline park, meander through a museum, and so much more.

Need more ideas for great times indoors? Be sure and check out Free Indoor Play Spaces for Philly Kids and our Indoor Play Spaces & Fun Zones Guide. Subscribe to our newsletters to get stories like this delivered directly to your inbox!

Long Island City Waterfront with Kids: 20 Fun Things To Do

Gantry Plaza State Park has plenty of eye candy for parents to enjoy while kids climb and play. Photo by Sydney Ng

When I first moved to Long Island City, Queens, back in 2008, it was the perfect place for a bachelor living it up in the city in his mid-20s. It was up-and-coming with indie comedy clubs, late-night hangs, and 2am eggs at the Court Square Diner. Back then, I couldn't fathom that 15 years and 2 kids later, I would return to Long Island City and find it an equally ideal place to raise my kids.

The neighborhood's family-friendly vibes are not unique to those of us who live here. Long Island City has become the ideal hot spot full of things to do morning, noon, and night, thanks in large part to its beautiful waterfront. Hunters Point South Park, known as The Gantry to locals—and instantly recognizable by its iconic Pepsi sign—has grown into New York City kid heaven. Read on for 20 fun things to do on the Long Island City waterfront with kids, and find more fun local neighborhoods and haunts to explore in our NYC Kids Neighborhood Guide.

How to Get Free Baby Stuff: Free Diapers, Formula, Baby Gear, and More

Have sweet dreams of all the free baby stuff you'll get. Photo by Garrett Jackson courtesy of Unsplash

Having a baby is a joyful experience, but it certainly isn't cheap. Factor in all of the diapers, wipes, baby food, and other baby gear and the numbers quickly add up. But there are plenty of places to get free baby stuff to help offset the costs of newborn and infant care.

From baby registry welcome boxes to diaper rewards programs to free baby product samples, there are many free items that new and expectant parents can get from companies. Plus, don't underestimate the generosity of friends, family, and neighbors.

Here are 30 places to get free diapers, formula, toys, and more free baby stuff. And, as your baby starts growing, check out your city's Guide to Free Things To Do with Kids for ways to have fun with your little one without blowing your budget.

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